europe

European Odyssey 2018

Indulge in history, fine art, and first-class cuisine while exploring the nuances of European life. Gain a unique understanding of the origins of modern society in the western world by exploring the Odyssey of Ancient Greece, the authentic culture of France, and the legacy of the Roman Empire.

Duration

Payment Options

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Pay in Full

Standard Plan - 20% deposit then 2 further payments over 11 weeksPay an initial 20% deposit now on enrollment and then we will invoice you by email when the further two payments are due. Both payments will be for 40% with the final payment being due 11 weeks from today (date of enrollment).

Description

People to People Unique Moments

Students of Paris Share the City’s Secrets

Discover the real Paris, according to local students, on a peer led immersive tour of the City of Lights. Get a real feel for the French capital with the help of kids your own age, as they show you their favourite places on a behind the scenes exploration of the city. Due to the small size of groups, this is the ultimate, personalised, tour of Paris. This is international networking like never before!

Authentic Homestay Experience in Italy

Live like a local alongside the family of a peer your own age during an exclusive People to People family homestay in Italy. This cultural experience just cannot be equaled as you are welcomed with open arms into Italian family life. Indulge in traditional home cooking and local activities during a two day international networking event. You’ll have friends on a global basis when you come away from your family.

A True Taste of Greece

Embrace the Greek way of life, awash with vibrant colors, flavours and dances. During a specially arranged event with locals, immerse yourself in the culture of one of the modern world’s longest running democratic societies. Dive into a tantalizing, traditional Greek BBQ after learning the fundamentals of the famous regional Sirtaki dance.

Cultural Exchanges / Education and Service

Ride a Gondola in Venice

Take part in a glass blowing demonstration in the world famous town of Murano. Then head out on a Gondola as you navigate your way around the awesome canals which are just perfect for taking photos to send home before learning to shop like a professional as you buy a fantastic, fresh local lunch.

Meet with a Member of the Swiss Guard at the Vatican

Learn what it takes to be a member of the Swiss Guard, the Pope’s secret service! These highly trained and elaborately dressed elite military personal play a vital role in the security of the world’s smallest state. Meeting with a genuine member of the Swiss Guard at the Vatican provides unique insight into a secretive, Catholic institution.

Meaningful Contributions to the Community

Take part in specially designed exclusive People to People community programs, together with local Scouts in Greece. Enhance the quality of life in the community during service projects renovating parks, playgrounds and even a local monastery with the help of the celebrated Leousio Foundation.

Fun and Adventure!

Master the Delicious Details of Italian Cuisine

Indulge in the world famous flavors of Italy. Test your culinary skills during a pizza making workshop that incorporates the most amazing local produce. Head home with the ability to impress your friends and family with the secrets of preparing this classic dish, which forms a fundamental part of life in the region.

A Cruise to a Greek Island

Live the dream as you set sail in the sunshine on a Greek cruise. You’ll be able to top up your tan whilst admiring the most gorgeous scenery as you head towards the historic island of Aegina. It really is picture perfect.

Outdoor and Leadership

Step out of your comfort zone with thrilling, confidence building outdoor activities in the Italian countryside. There really is something for everyone thanks to white water rafting, climbing, rope gardens, trekking and engaging team building games. After this your confidence really will be rocketing!

DAYS 1-2

Welcome to Europe
Those all-important first impressions… Discover Paris during a specially arranged, expert orientation of the city. Take in all of the sights and sounds of the world renowned Champs Elysee, Arc de Triomphe and of course Notre Dame Cathedral.During the afternoon, meet with French artist Henri Landier for a first hand insight into the celebrated world of Parisian art. Tuck into a selection of French delicacies, including snails, perched on top of Montmartre’s hill to top off an unforgettable first day in the French capital.

DAY 3

Treasures of Paris at the Louvre
With the wealth of art and priceless treasures on show in Europe’s biggest museum, the Louvre, it really is best to take the time to explore it on your own as you marvel at works including Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you’d rather follow the exclusive People to People Quiz you’ll ensure that you’ll not miss a thing! This evening dine in the Louvre’s ‘Carousel Restaurants du Monde’ which showcases different cuisines from right across the globe.Meet up with local students who will share their secrets of the city, such as their favourite places to hang out in the stunning Garden of Jardin de Luxembourg. Join in with a number of activities designed to connect different cultures and build international relationships, there will even be the opportunity to shop for mementos with your new friends. Take an evening tour of the iconic Eifel Tower and marvel at the breath-taking light show. It’s the best view of the City of Light!

DAY 4

UNESCO World Heritage
Not only will you have the chance to explore the extravagance of the Palace of Versailles, but you’ll also have the opportunity to picnic in the grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, following a trip to the market where you’ll pick up the ingredients for lunch.Indulge in some retail therapy on the Champs Elysees; Europe’s most stylish district; the famous boulevard with shops full of famous designers. As we pack in as much possible during your European adventure, don’t waste a moment of your time by boarding an overnight sleeper train to the beautiful Italian city of Venice. Tonight really will be the ultimate sleepover!

DAY 5

Romance in Venice
Take a deep breath… Kick off an action-packed day by navigating Venice’s picture perfect canals by Gondola. See all of the sites including the Guggenheim Museum, the “Fenice Theater,” and Mozart’s Residence before you enjoy your gondola ride on the busy waterways.Learn about Venice’s most celebrated exports and be the envy of all of your friends, as you take part in a Murano Glass blowing demonstration. Tuck into an array of tasty pasta dishes for lunch, before heading out on a guided orientation of the city around bustling alleys, quaint bridges and narrow canals. See the Basilica San Marco and the Bridge of Sighs on this insightful, immersive program.

DAYS 6-8

Live as a local
Soak up the sun in style as you spend the morning relaxing on the beaches of Jesolo on the Adriatic Sea. It’s then time to meet your homestay family for the next few days, where you’ll have the amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional Italian way of life.Your homestay family is specially selected, based on matching you with peers your own age, while the activities are designed to provide you with the most authentic experience possible. Eat regional foods, meet local students and see the real Italy during this unique People to People moment.

DAY 9

In the Footsteps of Heroes
Bid farewell to your homestay family then take a whirlwind tour of Pisa, culminating in a trip to the Leaning Tower. Here you can snap the classic photo of you holding up the striking landmark and take part in our People to People photo competition before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.Receive a grand welcome from an official at the American cemetery in nearby Florence, while unearthing the history of the area and the learning about the brave sacrifices of soldiers, including over 4,000 Americans during World War II. Join a pizza making class, where you can try out all your creations, and take home new found culinary skills. They are crazy about the perfect pizza in Tuscany.

DAY 10

Florence Renaissance
With the help of an expert guide, visit the Accademia Gallery, which houses Michelangelo’s colossal statue David and wealth of Renaissance art. Take a fascinating walk through the city of Florence, passing the Duomo and the bronze doors to the Baptistery, fittingly known as the Gate to Paradise.Tuck into a taste of home as your group dines at the Hard Rock Café. Situated inside a stunning former cinema, this location is listed as one of the city’s many heritage sites. Hit the shops during some free time, before meeting with Italian craftsmen who create some of the most revered products in the world. Today you’ll be sure to find fantastic gifts for family and friends.

DAY 11

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Overcome fears, build confidence and strengthen your personal development. This thrilling day involves both indoor and outdoor challenges, adventure learning and teamwork! Take part in adrenaline-fueled white water rafting in small groups and challenge yourself on the rope course with a mix of trekking, climbing and jumping techniques for all abilities.This evening, take a well-earned rest while enjoying a delicious BBQ, swapping stories from the days adventures.

DAY 12

The State within a State
Explore the secrets of the center of the Catholic Church, and the world’s smallest country, Vatican City. Your professional guide will take you on a once in a life-time tour of the Vatican Museums, spectacular frescos of the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.For a further, behind the scenes insight into the home of the Pope, meet with a genuine member of the Swiss Guard. Hear tales from his time spent guarding the Pope, and learn just what it takes to join one of the oldest military units in the world.

DAY 13

When in Rome…
Tour the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, and pull your best gladiator pose inside the iconic venues. Stand in awe at the very best of the city’s most iconic sights including the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Whilst at the Trevi Fountain be sure to a make a wish!Keep your eyes on the prize during a city quest through Rome’s ancient streets as you work up an appetite for one of Italy’s most celebrated products, Gelato! Tuck into a bowl or two while enjoying the stunning surroundings of the Piazza Navona. You really will be able to take the selfie of the summer today.

DAY 14

Explosive History
Step out into the wild. Hike up Mount Vesuvius, one of Europe’s few active volcanoes. A professional guide will lead you up meandering paths and explain the history the volcano, notorious for its eruption in AD 79 that led to the burying and destruction of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.Once off the mountains, take in some well-earned refreshment, and try some tantalizing examples of local Italian cuisine in a traditional setting.

DAY 15

A Gateway to Roman Life and Times
Visit the ancient city of Pompeii, Vesuvius’ most famous victim. One fateful day, 2000 years ago, it rained ash and stone down on the city leading to it becoming buried beneath the debris. We are now able to use the semi- preserved remains as a fascinating gateway into the past. You’ll walk through the streets in the footsteps of the ancient Romans.Head out through rolling Italian countryside towards Bari, capital of Apulia and the second most important city in the south of Italy before stopping at a port located on the Adriatic Sea. You’ll then board a vessel, packed with all the mod-cons, restaurants and entertainment you would expect on a Mediterranean cruise as you set sail across the Ionian Sea. With amazing 6-bed cabins for you and your new friends, tonight will be a real highlight of your trip!

DAY 16

Olympic Gold
Arrive at the home of western philosophy and adjust to your new surroundings by trying your first taste of Greek cuisine, while learning to make the traditional dish moussaka with a local chef. With beautiful fresh produce and the most inspirational views, you’ll hear how to make the perfect Greek dish in no time!Take a fully guided tour of the sights of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympics before heading to the impressive Temple of Zeus.After a short journey, stop off to admire the Corinthian Canal, which connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea (and provides the chance to take some of the best photos of the trip).

DAY 17

A Greek Tragedy
Delve into the spine-tingling world of Greek drama, with a guided visit of the grand theater of Epidaurus. Boasting celebrated acoustics that resonate throughout every seat in the audience, and the setting of so many classic stories, it is a truly amazing experience.During an insightful workshop, discover first-hand about the complexities of Greek theater and the concept of tragedies while role-playing and re-enacting scenes from Greek plays. Finally, you can sit back, relax, and watch a live play.

DAY 18

Immersive Greek Culture
Take a tour of Athens with a difference, as you travel by Little Train with the help of an expert guide through the city center, past the many attractive monuments and landmarks that line the ancient roads. Next up is the majestic Acropolis and magnificent Parthenon, which perfectly embodies the glory of ancient Greece.Following some free time and shopping in one of the oldest parts of Athens, it’s time to put your dancing shoes on. Learn the fundamentals of the Greek dance Sirtaki. Enjoy a dinner with local Greek families and delve even deeper into Greek culture by trying some typical and traditional Greek dishes.

DAY 19

Connecting Cultures
Board the ferry to Aegina, a beautiful Greek island just 27 km off the coast of Athens. Once on land you’ll have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the community during a service project renovating parks, play grounds and even the local monastery.Take a well-earned rest on glistening white beaches, as you sit back, relax and soak up the sun while reflecting on your time discovering the origins of Europe.

DAY 20

Bon Voyage!
Return home with a wealth of memories and new found friendships from near and far that will last a lifetime.

Traveler Details

Leaders for European Odyssey

June 30 to July 19, 2018 – Departs from Atlanta (ATL)
July 8 to July 27, 2018 – Departs from New York (JFK)
July 10 to July 29, 2018 – Departs from New York (JFK)

Day to Day

New York, USA

Overnight Flight

Day 1

Your adventure begins. Meet up with your delegation and board your overnight flight. Be sure to get some shut eye as you will hit the ground running when you land in Paris, The City of Light, world-renowned for the Champs Elysee, Arc de Triomphe, and, of course, Notre Dame Cathedral.

Paris, France

Welcome To Europe

Day 2

Welcome to Paris! This afternoon, you will meet with French artist Henri Landier for a firsthand look into the celebrated world of Parisian art. Tuck into a selection of French delicacies while perched on top of Montmartre’s hill to top off an unforgettable first day in France’s capital.

People to People Moment

Discover the "real" Paris, according to local students, on a peer-led tour of The City of Light. Get an authentic feel for the French capital with the help of kids your own age as they share their secrets of the city, such as their favorite places to hang out in the garden of Jardin de Luxemburg. Due to the small size of groups, this is the ultimate, personalized, tour of Paris.

Paris, France

The Louvre

Day 3

With a wealth of art and priceless treasures in Europe’s biggest museum, the Louvre, it’s best to take the time to explore it on your own. Marvel at works including Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. This evening dine in the Louvre’s “Carousel Restaurants du Monde,” which showcases cuisines from across the globe. Then take an evening tour of the iconic Eiffel Tower and be awed by the breathtaking light show.

Paris, France

Versailles

Day 4

Explore the extravagance of the Palace of Versailles and, following a trip to the market for fresh lunch ingredients, picnic on the grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indulge in some retail therapy in the Champs Elysees, Europe’s most stylish district. Afterwards, board an overnight sleeper train to the beautiful Italian city of Venice. Tonight really will be the ultimate sleepover!

Venice, Italy

Canals of Venice

Day 5

Kick off an action-packed day by navigating Venice’s picture perfect canals by Gondola. See all of the sites including the Guggenheim Museum, the “Fenice Theater,” and Mozart’s residence. Learn about Venice’s most celebrated exports and take part in a Murano glass blowing demonstration. Dive into an array of tasty pasta dishes for lunch before heading out on a guided tour of the city to see the Basilica San Marco and the Bridge of Sighs.

People to People Moment

Live like a local alongside a peer your own age during an exclusive People to People family homestay in Italy. This cultural experience cannot be equalled as you are welcomed with open arms into Italian family life.

Jesolo, Italy

Italian Homestay

Day 6-8

Soak up the sun on the beaches of Jesolo on the Adriatic Sea. Then, meet your homestay family, where you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional Italian way of life for the next few days. Your homestay family is carefully selected, based on matching you with peers your own age and with activities designed to provide you with the most authentic experience possible. Eat regional foods, meet local students, and see the real Italy during this unique People to People moment.

People to People Moment

Indulge in the world-famous flavors of Italy. Test your culinary skills during a pizza-making workshop that incorporates the tastiest local produce. Head home with the ability to impress your friends and family with the secrets of preparing this classic dish, which forms a fundamental part of life in the region.

Florence, Italy

Tuscany

Day 9

Bid farewell to your homestay family and then take a whirlwind tour of Pisa, culminating in a trip to the famous Leaning Tower. Snap that classic photo of you holding up the striking landmark before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Receive an official welcome at the American Cemetery in nearby Florence. There you’ll unearth the history of the area and learn about the brave sacrifices of soldiers, including over 4,000 Americans during World War II. Join a pizza-making class where you can try all your creations, and take home new-found culinary skills. They are crazy about the perfect pizza in Tuscany!

Florence, Italy

Florence Renaissance

Day 10

With the help of an expert guide, visit the Accademia Gallery, which houses Michelangelo’s statue David and a wealth of Renaissance art. Take a walk through the city of Florence, passing the Duomo and the bronze doors to the Bapistery, fittingly known as the Gate to Paradise. Remember the taste of home as you dine at the Hard Rock Café. Situated inside a former cinema, this location is listed as one of the city’s many heritage sites. Hit the shops during some free time before meeting with Italian craftsmen who create some of the most revered products in the world. Today you’ll be sure to find great gifts for family and friends!

Umbria, Italy

Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Day 11

This exciting day involves indoor and outdoor challenges, adventure-learning, and teamwork! Take part in adrenaline-fueled white water rafting and challenge yourself on the ropes course with a mix of trekking, climbing, and jumping techniques for all abilities.

People to People Moment

Learn what it takes to be a member of the Swiss Guard. These highly-trained and elaborately dressed elite military personnel play a vital role in the security for the world’s smallest country. Meeting with a member of the Swiss Guard at the Vatican provides unique insight into a secretive, Catholic institution.

Vatican City

Meet the Swiss Guards

Day 12

Explore the center of the Catholic Church and the world’s smallest country, Vatican City. Your professional guide will take you on a once-in-a-lifetime tour of the Vatican Museums, spectacular frescos of the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. For more behind-the-scenes insight into the Pope’s home, meet with a member of the Swiss Guard. Hear tales from his time spent guarding the Pope, and learn what it takes to join one of the oldest military units in the world.

Rome, Italy

When In Rome

Day 13

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, and pull your best gladiator pose inside the famous venues. Stand in awe of the city’s most iconic sights, including the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain. While at the Trevi Fountain, don’t forget to make a wish!

Naples, Italy

Mount Vesuvius

Day 14

Hike up Mount Vesuvius, one of Europe’s few active volcanoes. A professional guide will lead and explain the history of the volcano, notorious for its eruption in AD 79 that led to the burying of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Once off the mountains, try some tantalizing local Italian cuisine in a traditional setting.

Naples, Italy

A Gateway To Roman Life And Times

Day 15

Visit the ancient Roman city of Pompeii. 2,000 years ago, ash and stone rained down on the city, leading to it become buried beneath the debris. We are now able to use the semi-preserved remains as a fascinating gateway into the past. Travel through rolling countryside towards Bari, capital of Apulia, before stopping at a port located on the Adriatic Sea. Board a vessel, packed with all the restaurants and entertainment you would expect on a Mediterranean cruise, as you set sail across the Ionian Sea.

Olympia, Greece

Birthplace of the Olympics

Day 16

Arrive at the home of western philosophy–Greece! Try your first taste of Greek cuisine while learning to make the traditional dish moussaka with a local chef. Take a guided tour of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympics, before heading to the impressive Temple of Zeus.

Athens, Greece

A Greek Tragedy

Day 17

Delve into the spine-tingling world of Greek drama with a guided visit of the grand theater of Epidaurus. During a workshop, discover the complexities of Greek theater and the concept of tragedies while role-playing and re-enacting scenes from Greek plays. Finally, you can sit back, relax, and watch a live play.

People to People Moment

Embrace the Greek way of life, awash with vibrant colors, flavors, and dances. During a specially-arranged event with locals, immerse yourself in the culture of one of the modern world’s longest running democratic societies. Dive into a tantalizing, traditional Greek BBQ after learning the fundamentals of the famous regional Sirtaki dance.

Athens, Greece

Ancient Athens

Day 18

Travel through the Athens city center by Little Train on your guided tour, passing the many monuments and landmarks that line the ancient roads. Next up is the majestic Acropolis and magnificent Parthenon, which perfectly embody the glory of ancient Greece. Following some free time, put your dancing shoes on! Learn the fundamentals of the Greek dance Sirtaki. Enjoy dinner with local families and delve deeper into Greek culture by trying some typical Greek dishes.

People to People Moment

Take part in exclusive People to People community programs with local Scouts in Greece. With the help of the celebrated Leousio Foundation, enhance the quality of life in the community through service projects renovating parks, playgrounds, and even a local monastery.

Aegina, Greece

Give Back

Day 19

Board the ferry to Aegina, a beautiful Greek island just off the coast of Athens. Make meaningful contributions to the community during a service project renovating parks, playgrounds, and even the local monastery. Take a well-earned rest on glistening white beaches. Sit back, relax and soak up the sun while reflecting on your time discovering the origins of Europe.

Athens, Greece

Bon Voyage

Day 20

Return home with a wealth of memories and new friendships that will last a lifetime.

ECEI is the official travel provider for People to People International Travel Programs

Contact

People to People
International Travel Programs
44 Merrimac Street
Newburyport, MA 01950